We are happy to discuss with you the possibility of conducting your wedding at Manly Presbyterian Church. If you are considering this, this page is intended to help you decide if this is the right place to hold your wedding. Getting married here will mean the service will be conducted according to the rites of the Presbyterian Church of Australia. Anything that happens in the service (including songs, readings etc.) must fit in with these. For that reason the service might not be quite as flexible as if you were getting married in a park or at the beach with a civil celebrant (we can however assist if you want a Christian wedding in one of those places!).
Cost (as of November 2024)
The total cost of a wedding at Manly Presbyterian Church is $2800. This is a full all inclusive cost, covering up to 6 marriage preparation appointments with our minister, a full rehersal, cleaning and hire of our building and grounds, the services of our minister on the day as well as other church staff, one of Sydney's most proficient organists (if required), bell ringing, basic sound support and all the less exciting behind the scenes things like paperwork and government certificate charges etc (If you are comparing our price to another provider or celebrant ensure their quote really is "all inclusive"). In order to confirm and hold your wedding booking we require a $1400 deposit within two weeks of booking to confirm the date. The balance must be paid before your wedding. If paying by direct debit the banking details are (Manly Presbyterian Church – NAB BSB 082-352 Account No. 638383960).
Music and Hymns
Before you decide on a hymn, you will need to consider whether your guests will sing or not on the day. A hymn is a sung prayer. If no one will sing the prayer, then is it wise to have one at all? If you feel enough will sing, then the hymn(s) chosen will need to be one(s) they can sing. The wedding fee includes the services of an organist and we are happy to discuss options for more contemporary or recorded music if you would like. These would normally operate on a byo basis.
Between now and your wedding day
If you attend weddings before your own, take note of things you either liked or disliked and discuss them with me. There are a few things we can't change, but we are pretty good at fitting in any special touches that may be meaningful or important to you.
Pre-Marriage Counselling
We normally insist upon some form of pre marriage counselling for couples who wish to get married at Manly Presbyterian Church. Our Minister can assist you this or if you wish to do it elsewhere (like your home church) we may be open to this.
FAQ's
Are we eligible to be married at Manly Presbyterian Church?
Your wedding must be capable of being conducted “within the rites of the Presbyterian church of Australia”. If you are not sure if you fit within this it is probably a good idea to talk to our minister (Duncan - 0413 009 943).
How far do I need to book in advance?
Most weddings at Manly Presbyterian Church are booked 12 months or so in advance, but we will often be able to find an earlier date if you are a bit flexible.
Can I bring my own minister/celebrant?
On occasion we may authorise a minister from a similar tradition to ours to take a service at Manly Presbyterian church (ie. a wedding). However it certainly should not be assumed that permission will be given. If you are even remotely considering this you should speak to us ASAP so you are not disappointed. Because we offer the same support services to make sure your wedding day goes smoothly, as well as significant liaison/ support and cooperation to your Pastor/Minister please realise NO DISCOUNT is available if you wish to have someone else officiate your wedding at Manly Presbyterian Church.
Can we write our own vows?
Within reason we are happy to go along with this, certain things will have to be included as our marriage licence is dependant upon the service being conducted according to the “rites of the Presbyterian church of Australia”.
How much does it cost?
Currently it costs $2800 to get married at Manly Presbyterian Church. This includes minister, organist and other staff to help facilitate your day. There are no discounts if you bring your own minister as in our experience bespoke arrangements (which we are happy to cooperate with) will always have a much more significant administrative burden.
The main extra cost on top of this is hall hire if you want to use it for afternoon tea or your reception etc ($88 an hour)
When is my booking secure?
When you have paid a $1400 deposit.
Is Pre-Marriage counselling available (and do we have to do it)?
Getting married is a pretty big deal. At Manly Presbyterian Church we think it’s a unique time to explore some big issues in life and make sure couples have discussed areas where it’s possible differences may exist pre-emptively. We are not overly prescriptive as to how or where this counselling occurs, but we can certainly discuss options with you. Normally at Manly Presbyterian Church pre-marriage counselling will happen in a series (up to 6) of meetings with our minister as your work out the details and prepare for your wedding day.
Do I have to use the organ?
No, obviously it is a fairly dominant feature of the interior of the church so many couples choose to. We can’t really help with other musicians but we are happy to discuss options with you. The acoustics are very good within the church building so even simple options (ie wireless bluetooth speakers etc) sound pretty good.
Can we bring our own musicians?
Certainly, the church building has great acoustics and you are welcome to bring musicians. We have a baby grand piano opposite the organ that is available as well. We have limited capacity to assist with sound needs. If you want to bring a full contemporary worship band or something like that you may need to bring most of your own sound equipment (as well as someone to operate it).
What sound equipment is available?
Our mixing desk only has about 10 channels and 2-3 of these are needed for vocal mikes. We’ll help out with this one where we can, but please realise your wedding fee only includes basic sound support and DOES NOT include a sound technician. If you want to do something elaborate you are going to have to make your own arrangements (which we will support and cooperate with as much as we can).
Can we use confetti, bubbles, rice, balloons etc etc?
You can blow bubbles outside if you really want to. Littering on the footpath (rice, confetti etc) is frowned upon by council and we’re not big fans of it inside the church building either. You can decorate with balloons inside if you want, but we love turtles and other marine life and hence are not into balloons being released outside.
Can we put candles down the aisle?
If they are real candles and you want to light them then the answer is categorically NO WAY! If you want to do something with LED candles or similar that’s up to you. If you come from a tradition where candles are highly symbolic of something then we will seek to help you find a safe place for them up the front.
Can we decorate the church?
Yep, but if you bring it, you take it away. Certain items of furniture within the church building must not be moved, others can be arranged as you like. Normally we’ll open up for you 2 hours before the ceremony so florists etc can set up. All Items and rubbish left on the church property after the service will be disposed off (charges apply, which includes labor, vehicle hire as well as the current waste disposal fee at Kimbriki tip (around $500 per 1000kg). Please be advised we will not register your marriage until these costs (if required) have been recovered.
What parking is available?
There is dedicated space for3-4wedding cars out the front of the church on Raglan St. Cars must be clearly recognisable as wedding vehicles or they are likely to be booked by council rangers. There is a carpark opposite the church that may have spaces available, this is best suited for smaller cars. There are a range of parking stations in Manly only a short walk away. Up the hill from the church on street parking is often available, much of this is limited to 2 hours.
Is there an area available for afternoon tea/drinks after the service?
There is a reasonably sized area of lawn beside the main church building where guests can be served refreshments etc whilst some photos are taken. There is also a large hall next to the church that can be rented for $88 an hour for more elaborate setups. The hall includes a large kitchen and tables and chairs are available to use.
Are dogs allowed in the church?
Well behaved dogs and of course assistance animals are very welcome inside the church building.
How many people does the church seat?
The church building was originally set up to seat 400 people. This is on 40 pews (with 10 per pew). People were probably a bit smaller then. We think a comfortable capacity is something like 250-300 but the space works very well for small gatherings too.
Is the church single aisle or double aisle?
The church has one central aisle. It is a good width for two people to walk down side by side. Occasionally brides wish to be walked down the aisle by their Mother and Father (or something similar). You can do this if you really want to but it's a bit tight for three people to walk down side by side.
Where is the main entry door?
The main entrance is on the eastern corner of the building on Raglan St. This door does not open directly onto the central aisle, but offers a good space for the bride and bridesmaid to gather and attend to final touches before making their way along the back of the church and down the aisle
.
There is a second entrance to the church on the Western corner this has less steps and is best for people with any mobility issues (ramp available).
A third entrance to the church exists near the front of the church on Augusta lane which is best for access to the hall, lawn area and other ammenities. It also provides a lovely see breeze on a warm summer afternoon.
Is there an easel available at the church we can put a welcome sign on?
Yep, we can help with all this sort of thing.
If you would like to discuss the possibility of holding your wedding at St Andrews please click here.
Cost (as of November 2024)
The total cost of a wedding at Manly Presbyterian Church is $2800. This is a full all inclusive cost, covering up to 6 marriage preparation appointments with our minister, a full rehersal, cleaning and hire of our building and grounds, the services of our minister on the day as well as other church staff, one of Sydney's most proficient organists (if required), bell ringing, basic sound support and all the less exciting behind the scenes things like paperwork and government certificate charges etc (If you are comparing our price to another provider or celebrant ensure their quote really is "all inclusive"). In order to confirm and hold your wedding booking we require a $1400 deposit within two weeks of booking to confirm the date. The balance must be paid before your wedding. If paying by direct debit the banking details are (Manly Presbyterian Church – NAB BSB 082-352 Account No. 638383960).
Music and Hymns
Before you decide on a hymn, you will need to consider whether your guests will sing or not on the day. A hymn is a sung prayer. If no one will sing the prayer, then is it wise to have one at all? If you feel enough will sing, then the hymn(s) chosen will need to be one(s) they can sing. The wedding fee includes the services of an organist and we are happy to discuss options for more contemporary or recorded music if you would like. These would normally operate on a byo basis.
Between now and your wedding day
If you attend weddings before your own, take note of things you either liked or disliked and discuss them with me. There are a few things we can't change, but we are pretty good at fitting in any special touches that may be meaningful or important to you.
Pre-Marriage Counselling
We normally insist upon some form of pre marriage counselling for couples who wish to get married at Manly Presbyterian Church. Our Minister can assist you this or if you wish to do it elsewhere (like your home church) we may be open to this.
FAQ's
Are we eligible to be married at Manly Presbyterian Church?
Your wedding must be capable of being conducted “within the rites of the Presbyterian church of Australia”. If you are not sure if you fit within this it is probably a good idea to talk to our minister (Duncan - 0413 009 943).
How far do I need to book in advance?
Most weddings at Manly Presbyterian Church are booked 12 months or so in advance, but we will often be able to find an earlier date if you are a bit flexible.
Can I bring my own minister/celebrant?
On occasion we may authorise a minister from a similar tradition to ours to take a service at Manly Presbyterian church (ie. a wedding). However it certainly should not be assumed that permission will be given. If you are even remotely considering this you should speak to us ASAP so you are not disappointed. Because we offer the same support services to make sure your wedding day goes smoothly, as well as significant liaison/ support and cooperation to your Pastor/Minister please realise NO DISCOUNT is available if you wish to have someone else officiate your wedding at Manly Presbyterian Church.
Can we write our own vows?
Within reason we are happy to go along with this, certain things will have to be included as our marriage licence is dependant upon the service being conducted according to the “rites of the Presbyterian church of Australia”.
How much does it cost?
Currently it costs $2800 to get married at Manly Presbyterian Church. This includes minister, organist and other staff to help facilitate your day. There are no discounts if you bring your own minister as in our experience bespoke arrangements (which we are happy to cooperate with) will always have a much more significant administrative burden.
The main extra cost on top of this is hall hire if you want to use it for afternoon tea or your reception etc ($88 an hour)
When is my booking secure?
When you have paid a $1400 deposit.
Is Pre-Marriage counselling available (and do we have to do it)?
Getting married is a pretty big deal. At Manly Presbyterian Church we think it’s a unique time to explore some big issues in life and make sure couples have discussed areas where it’s possible differences may exist pre-emptively. We are not overly prescriptive as to how or where this counselling occurs, but we can certainly discuss options with you. Normally at Manly Presbyterian Church pre-marriage counselling will happen in a series (up to 6) of meetings with our minister as your work out the details and prepare for your wedding day.
Do I have to use the organ?
No, obviously it is a fairly dominant feature of the interior of the church so many couples choose to. We can’t really help with other musicians but we are happy to discuss options with you. The acoustics are very good within the church building so even simple options (ie wireless bluetooth speakers etc) sound pretty good.
Can we bring our own musicians?
Certainly, the church building has great acoustics and you are welcome to bring musicians. We have a baby grand piano opposite the organ that is available as well. We have limited capacity to assist with sound needs. If you want to bring a full contemporary worship band or something like that you may need to bring most of your own sound equipment (as well as someone to operate it).
What sound equipment is available?
Our mixing desk only has about 10 channels and 2-3 of these are needed for vocal mikes. We’ll help out with this one where we can, but please realise your wedding fee only includes basic sound support and DOES NOT include a sound technician. If you want to do something elaborate you are going to have to make your own arrangements (which we will support and cooperate with as much as we can).
Can we use confetti, bubbles, rice, balloons etc etc?
You can blow bubbles outside if you really want to. Littering on the footpath (rice, confetti etc) is frowned upon by council and we’re not big fans of it inside the church building either. You can decorate with balloons inside if you want, but we love turtles and other marine life and hence are not into balloons being released outside.
Can we put candles down the aisle?
If they are real candles and you want to light them then the answer is categorically NO WAY! If you want to do something with LED candles or similar that’s up to you. If you come from a tradition where candles are highly symbolic of something then we will seek to help you find a safe place for them up the front.
Can we decorate the church?
Yep, but if you bring it, you take it away. Certain items of furniture within the church building must not be moved, others can be arranged as you like. Normally we’ll open up for you 2 hours before the ceremony so florists etc can set up. All Items and rubbish left on the church property after the service will be disposed off (charges apply, which includes labor, vehicle hire as well as the current waste disposal fee at Kimbriki tip (around $500 per 1000kg). Please be advised we will not register your marriage until these costs (if required) have been recovered.
What parking is available?
There is dedicated space for3-4wedding cars out the front of the church on Raglan St. Cars must be clearly recognisable as wedding vehicles or they are likely to be booked by council rangers. There is a carpark opposite the church that may have spaces available, this is best suited for smaller cars. There are a range of parking stations in Manly only a short walk away. Up the hill from the church on street parking is often available, much of this is limited to 2 hours.
Is there an area available for afternoon tea/drinks after the service?
There is a reasonably sized area of lawn beside the main church building where guests can be served refreshments etc whilst some photos are taken. There is also a large hall next to the church that can be rented for $88 an hour for more elaborate setups. The hall includes a large kitchen and tables and chairs are available to use.
Are dogs allowed in the church?
Well behaved dogs and of course assistance animals are very welcome inside the church building.
How many people does the church seat?
The church building was originally set up to seat 400 people. This is on 40 pews (with 10 per pew). People were probably a bit smaller then. We think a comfortable capacity is something like 250-300 but the space works very well for small gatherings too.
Is the church single aisle or double aisle?
The church has one central aisle. It is a good width for two people to walk down side by side. Occasionally brides wish to be walked down the aisle by their Mother and Father (or something similar). You can do this if you really want to but it's a bit tight for three people to walk down side by side.
Where is the main entry door?
The main entrance is on the eastern corner of the building on Raglan St. This door does not open directly onto the central aisle, but offers a good space for the bride and bridesmaid to gather and attend to final touches before making their way along the back of the church and down the aisle
.
There is a second entrance to the church on the Western corner this has less steps and is best for people with any mobility issues (ramp available).
A third entrance to the church exists near the front of the church on Augusta lane which is best for access to the hall, lawn area and other ammenities. It also provides a lovely see breeze on a warm summer afternoon.
Is there an easel available at the church we can put a welcome sign on?
Yep, we can help with all this sort of thing.
If you would like to discuss the possibility of holding your wedding at St Andrews please click here.
